How sex differences affect brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders
Sex-specific trajectories in epigenomic regulation of brain patterning
This study is looking at how the brains of boys and girls develop differently in early stages and how these differences might affect the chances of developing conditions like autism and schizophrenia, with the hope of finding new ways to understand and treat these disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11035215 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how gene expression varies between males and females during early brain development and how these differences may contribute to varying risks for neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia. By examining brain organoids and postmortem fetal brains, the study aims to identify specific genes and regulatory elements that are differentially active based on sex. The researchers will also explore the relationship between these sex-biased gene expressions and genetic risk factors associated with developmental disorders. This approach could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of these conditions and inform future treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autism spectrum disorders or schizophrenia, particularly those interested in the genetic and developmental aspects of these conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders unrelated to sex differences or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to these conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and targeted interventions for neurodevelopmental disorders based on sex-specific biological mechanisms.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding sex differences in neurodevelopment, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vaccarino, Flora M — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Vaccarino, Flora M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.